Jenkins impressed by England

Wales prop Gethin Jenkins has added his voice to the growing list of admirers for England's revival under interim coach Stuart Lancaster.

Published: 08:56, Mon, February 27, 2012

Gethin Jenkins [PA]

Wales prop Gethin Jenkins has added his voice to the growing list of admirers for England's revival under interim coach Stuart Lancaster.

Jenkins and company stand two home wins away from securing the second RBS 6 Nations title and Grand Slam of coach Warren Gatland's four-year reign. But it is unlikely they will receive a tougher examination than the one England gave them at Twickenham, where Wales prevailed 19-12 to capture their 20th championship Triple Crown.

Jenkins said: "We were relieved when it was all over. It was a real tough encounter, yet we didn't expect anything different. A lot of people had written England off, but their players play week in, week out in a very tough league."

He added: "It was one of the most physical Tests I have played in. The intensity of the breakdown and tackles, and every contact was a big battle. Fair play to England, they did their homework on us.

"I thought England were outstanding, and we are glad we sneaked the win in the end. I was very impressed with them - I thought they attacked us really well at the breakdown.

"Winning a Triple Crown at Twickenham doesn't happen very often, but it is about moving on now to these next two games.

"It is a big scalp beating all the other home nations, and it is nice we have got our last two games at home. We will push on towards Italy.

"It is a case of dealing with the expectation of the Welsh public, like it always is."